Institut Mémoires de l'édition contemporaine

IMEC - Abbey of Our Lady of the Ardennes
Founded in the 12th century, steeped in history, Ardenne Abbey benefited from long-term restoration and is now home to the Institute of Contemporary Publishing Archives’ collections and activities.
The abbey church, converted into a huge library, offers researchers the calm and tranquillity once offered by the monastic buildings. The vast farmyard, gardens, tithe barn and press now host events, colloquiums and exhibitions, and offer a place of residence for research and writing.

Property of the Regional Council and a listed historic monument, the abbey received the prestigious label of Heritage Site for Culture, awarded to historic monuments that are initiators of unique cultural projects.

The IMEC’s action and vocation benefit from support from the French Ministry of Culture and Communication (Normandy Regional Directorate for Cultural Affaires) and from the Normandy Regional Council.

During temporary exhibitions, the site is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, from 2 to 6pm.